Monday, October 08, 2007 Weavers come up with programs to enhance industry
TABUK CITY -- In efforts to save the weaving industry in the province, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Kalinga did a consultation and stakeholder analysis with the local weavers to come up with recommendations and programs to sustain and enhance the industry.
The participants composed of weavers, fiber producers and traders of Kalinga woven products identified several measures and strategies for the industry to gain better appreciation and prosper as an enterprise.
First is the need to organize and federate a weavers group in the province to act as a consultative body to look into the needed programs, coordination and plans concerning the industry. Organizing the group is also considered important to facilitate group training and funding from agencies.
Second recommendation is the need for legislative support from the local government intensifying the advocacy and patronage of the province on weaving not only as a business venture but as a part of the traditions of the Kalingas.
Another is the continuous showcasing of the skill in institutions like the establishment of weaving schools and centers and the integration of weaving in the curriculum.
The group likewise raised the need to strategize the promotion of their product to increase sales through the establishment of regular market outlets, enhancement of the design, provision of capital and equipment upgrading to come up with compatible and quality products to meet market demands.
Noryn Bagano, DTI development specialist, said the activity was initiated in partnership with the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) and the Cordillera Network of NGOs and POs (Cordnet) that conveyed their interest to support the weaving industries of the Cordilleras.
PEF and Cordnet are non-stock, non-profit organizations formed to help empower the poor and marginalized communities in the country.
“This project called ‘Saving the Weaving Industry in the Cordilleras’ is a strategic mechanism designed to find solutions and recommendation on issues facing the dwindling industry,” she said.
In support to the pro-poor agenda of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, joint project is not limited in providing technical and training assistance to develop the weaving industry but also aims to preserve the unique functional tradition in the Cordilleras, enhancing their culture and identify as indigenous peoples.
